Claire Janigo

Chamonix, France

I grew up surrounded by the Cascade mountains in Bellingham, Washington, in the US. At an early age I learned to ski, and soon developed a love for running on trails. Growing up with a French mother, I originally came to France on a 6 month exchange to learn the language and the culture. At the end of this exchange, I arrived in Chamonix for a two week ski vacation and, like many others, I fell in love with the Mont Blanc Massif. I have been living here since 2012.

I complement my guiding work with massage therapy. I have been working as a masseuse since 2016 and am passionate about helping people to feel better both physically and emotionally.

I often forage for berries and mushrooms, making them into preserves or eating them straight from the bushes. I am happiest outside in my garden or in the mountains, with friends and my dog for company. There is a magic to wandering without the constraints of time, and taking advantage of the beautiful views seen from mountain huts and refuges when we need to refuel.

I worked as a ski instructor for people with disabilities when I lived in the States and know how to ski on a mono sit-ski.

The Tour du Beaufortain in the Savoie region of the French Alps. I love how wild this part of the Alps feels.

2024